IRS Sends $2,939 on ave. Checks Before June ― Money Hitting these Bank Accounts

Tax season often brings stress for many Americans, largely due to uncertainty—especially when it comes to whether you’ll owe the IRS. While some taxpayers receive refunds averaging nearly $3,000, others are caught off guard with unexpected tax bills. This usually stems from common missteps in withholding and income reporting. Knowing what causes tax debt and how to anticipate your refund can go a long way in easing those seasonal financial worries.

Common Reasons People Owe the IRS

One of the biggest culprits behind a surprise tax bill is insufficient tax withholding. Many employees don’t adjust their Form W-4 when life changes occur, like:

• Getting a second job
• Losing a dependent (e.g., a child no longer qualifies)
• Receiving unemployment benefits or freelance income

All of these factors can change your tax situation dramatically.

Under-Withholding and Form W-4

If you haven’t updated your Form W-4 after a significant life change, chances are you’re not having enough tax withheld from your paycheck. Even a small miscalculation can lead to a big year-end tax bill. The solution? Use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator online to determine if adjustments are needed.

Unreported or Underpaid Non-Wage Income

Did you earn money from side gigs, investments, or freelance work? These income sources usually don’t have taxes withheld automatically. If you don’t make estimated quarterly payments, you could end up owing the IRS at tax time.

The IRS Refund Timeline: What to Expect

For those expecting a refund, the IRS works to issue most payments within 21 days of accepting your return. The method and timing of your filing significantly affect when you’ll receive your refund.

Filing Method	Estimated Refund Time
E-file + Direct Deposit	1 to 3 weeks after acceptance
Paper Return + Check	Up to 8 weeks
E-file + Mailed Check	3 to 6 weeks
Paper Return + Direct Deposit	4 to 6 weeks

The average refund for 2024 filings (per current IRS stats) is $2,939. While that’s great news for many, it’s worth noting that this amount often represents overpaid taxes—money that could’ve been in your paycheck all year long.

IRS Refund Schedule (June–September 2025)

Here’s a look at the estimated refund dates based on when your return is accepted:

Return Accepted	Direct Deposit Date	Mailed Check Date
May 26	June 16	July 25
June 9	June 30	August 8
June 23	July 14	August 22
July 7	July 28	September 5
July 21	August 11	September 19

These dates assume:

• Your return was error-free
• You didn’t claim special tax credits (like EITC or ACTC)
• The IRS did not request additional documentation

How to Track Your Refund

To stay on top of your refund status, the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool is invaluable. Available online and via mobile, it updates daily and provides three key statuses:

• Return Received
• Refund Approved
• Refund Sent

To use the tool, you’ll need:

• Your Social Security Number or ITIN
• Your filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.)
• Your exact refund amount

The tool becomes active 24 hours after e-filing and 4 weeks after mailing a paper return.

Tips for a Smoother Tax Season

To avoid unpleasant surprises next tax season, consider these steps:

1. Update your Form W-4 after any job or family changes.
2. Track all sources of income, including side gigs and unemployment.
3. Make quarterly payments if you’re self-employed or receive non-wage income.
4. Use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator at least once a year.
5. File electronically and select direct deposit for the fastest refund.

Being proactive about taxes doesn’t just help you avoid IRS debt—it also puts more control into your hands over your finances throughout the year.

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